If you are a Ragdoll cat owner experiencing behavioral problems with your Ragdoll you might wonder if disciplining a cat is even possible. Cats are extremely independent creatures; however, it is possible to modify undesirable behaviors with a little patience and persistence.
When it comes to modifying undesirable behaviors with your Ragdoll cat it is important to keep in mind that cats are not four legged people.
Your Ragdoll cat is a pet; a pet that most likely sees you as a big oversized cat. It may be helpful if you try and understand why your cat is behaving I the manner that it is.
This could help you correct the underlying reason for the problem. Cats do not understand violence and will not associate the negative behavior with being hit. Your cat will associate you with violence and will simply fear you. This could make the undesirable behavior worse and even cause new problems.Never hit your Ragdoll cat. There are ways to reprimand a cat for undesirable behaviors. The “Face Push” method may be an effective way to reinforce your point. If you are close to your cat when observing the negative behavior, gently pushing back on your Ragdoll cat’s face while issuing a stern “No!” may be enough to deter the undesirable behavior.
Remember the face push is a gently push; you are not hitting your Ragdoll cat in the face. Other non-violent methods of deterring behaviors involve squirt guns filled with water and a dash of vinegar or shaking a metal can full of coins. Reinforce this action with a stern “No!” You will need to be consistent in your response to negative behaviors; this consistency will allow you to train your Ragdoll cat not to behave in that manner.
With a little patience you can teach your Ragdoll cat that undesirable behaviors such as scratching your Italian leather sofa are unacceptable.
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- Behavior Problems and Your Ragdoll Cat
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- Correcting Cat Behavior Problems
